Get your boots and flannels out of the closet: it’s campfire season! But be sure to brush up on our burning tips before lighting up that pile of weeds in the backyard. DNR firefighters have responded to more than 215 fires so far this year.
burn safely
Whenever you burn, keep a shovel and a source of water nearby, and never leave the fire unattended. Avoid burning on a windy day when hot embers can be blown into dry grass or leaves.
Yard waste burning? Remember to look for a burn permit to see if conditions are safe to burn, and know your local fire ordinances. Most wildfires are started by people burning leaves and yard clippings. You will need a burn permit any time the ground is not covered in snow.
Residents of the Upper Peninsula and the northern Lower Peninsula can view the conditions at Michigan.gov/BurnPermit or call 866-922-BURN. Southern Michigan residents should check with their local municipality or fire department.
burn efficiently
Well-dried wood is the most efficient for your wood stove or fire pit, as it burns cleaner and releases less irritating smoke than poorly seasoned wood.
The US EPA’s Burn Wise efficiency program recommends drying cut lumber in a covered, ventilated area for at least six months. Check your fuel with a moisture measuring tool, waiting to burn until the moisture content reaches 20% or less. The dry logs should feel light when lifted and make a hollow sound when struck against each other.
The burning of garbage, plastic and hazardous materials is never allowed and can cause health problems. Please recycle or responsibly dispose of these materials.
Burning is not always the best way
Many people burn leaves and brush in the fall, but did you know that you can reuse fallen leaves? No fire required!
Dead leaves make a great free mulch that will insulate perennials and prevent garden soil from being washed away by rain. They can also be raked into a bin or pile to be turned into nutrient-rich compost. Learn how with composting tips from the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy.
In addition to helping your garden, fallen leaves serve as winter habitat for wildlife. Turtles, toads, salamanders, moths and butterflies spend the winter huddled under the leaves. An easy way to keep your area tidy and provide habitat is to rake leaves under bushes and shrubs in your garden or provide a “wilderness area” where leaves can naturally break off.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to enjoy a fall season filled with campfires, hot cider, and stargazing. Find more information about safe burning at Michigan.gov/PreventWildfires.
Source: news.google.com